The CEO's Contractual Wife

Chapter 157

Olivia

Friday afternoon found us speeding along the Pacific Coast Highway, windows down and music playing. Alexander looked relaxed behind the wheel, one hand resting casually on the steering wheel, the other occasionally reaching over to squeeze my knee.

“So, are you going to tell me more about this Malibu house?” I asked, watching the ocean glitter alongside the highway.

“And ruin the surprise? Not a chance.” He grinned, sunglasses hiding his eyes. “Just trust me.”

“The last time you said ‘trust me,‘ I ended up zip–lining across a canyon in the island.”

“And wasn’t it exhilarating?”

“Terrifying is the word I’d use.”

Alexander’s phone buzzed with an incoming call. He glanced at the display before silencing it. “Work can wait until Monday.”

“Look at you, ignoring calls. Who are you and what have you done with my workaholic husband?”

“I’m evolving,” he said with mock seriousness. “Becoming a more balanced individual.”

“Uh–huh.” I wasn’t convinced. “Let’s see how long that lasts.”

“At least until Monday morning,” he promised. “This weekend is just for us.”

The Malibu house, as Alexander had modestly called it, turned out to be a stunning oceanfront villa perched on the cliffs above a private beach. Modern architecture blended seamlessly with the natural landscape, floor- to–ceiling windows capturing breathtaking views of the Pacific.

“This is incredible,” I breathed as we stepped into the expansive living room. The space opened onto an infinity pool that seemed to merge with the ocean beyond.

“Glad you approve,” Alexander said, looking pleased with himself. “Wait until you see the master suite.”

and an outdoor shower concealed by natural rock formations. The bathroom

running my hand along the smooth

for Mrs. Carter,” Alexander replied, wrapping his arms around

what’s the plan?” I asked, leaning back against his chest.

have dinner on the terrace, maybe take a moonlight swim…” His hands slid up to cup my breasts, thumbs

turning in his arms to face him.

disappointed but quickly recovered. “Your wish is my command. Beach first,

our way down the private staircase to the beach below. The cove was completely secluded, protected by natural rock formations that blocked

did you find this place?” I asked, digging my

client mentioned it was available for the weekend,” Alexander said, watching a seagull soar overhead. “I made

I repeated with

with a grin that was

the water’s edge, feeling the cool spray against my legs.

before he could respond, laughing as I heard him shout behind me. Despite my head start, Alexander caught up quickly, his longer stride eating up the distance between us. Just as I reached the outcropping of rocks, his

I gasped through my laughter as he spun me

he countered, setting me down but keeping his

waves lapping at our ankles. Alexander’s eyes

self–conscious

how beautiful

his hands sliding down to

back,” he murmured against my lips. “Before I’m

be scandalous,” I agreed, stepping back reluctantly. “Sand gets

experience?” he teased, taking my hand as we started walking

“Hardly. Just common sense.”

rest of the afternoon alternating between swimming in the infinity pool and lounging on the deck chairs with cocktails. By the time the sun began to set, I felt more relaxed

“Hungry?” Alexander asked, handing me a fresh

wrapping the towel

Dinner should

you